Are Social Media Influencers Bad Influences on Youth?

The country is facing a difficult time amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, leaving many bored while stuck at home. Many teens have turned to TikTok to cure that boredom, spending multiple hours a day, on the popular app. However, even though we are all supposed to be stuck at home even a brief perusal of the app reveals that many popular influencers are doing the exact opposite of staying home and social distancing.

Two members of the Sway House located in Los Angeles’ Hollywood Hills were recently criminally charged for hosting largely populated parties at their mansion in violation of COVID-19 guidelines.

Bryce Hall and Blake Gray are the two members in question.  Bryce Hall hosted three large parties with hundreds of attendees in August alone. Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti ordered water and power to be shut off at their house at one point, in response to the large parties.

There was also a birthday dinner thrown in honor of an influencer named Bryant Eslava. The party was thrown sometime last week and many popular influencers such as Charli D’amelio, Dixie D’amelio, James Charles, Noah Centineo, Kylie Jenner, and many more were spotted at the party. Most if not all of them were seen mask less and not social distancing.

Many influencers and TikTok stars have been seen going out and partying with friends during a global pandemic killings hundreds of thousands of people and most of them are not held accountable for their actions and continue to have millions of fans and supporters. They continue to get brand deals and sponsorships. What kind of message is that sending to young people?

These people put their own health and everyone who they come into contact with at risk of getting the Coronavirus just so they can continue to party and hang out with their friends. They are sending the message that the virus does not matter to them, and that they do not care for other people’s health. By not being held accountable these influencers are being taught that what they are teaching the youth is okay and they will continue to do so until they face legal, financial, and social repercussions.